Vice President of the New England Commission of HIgher Education (General)

New England Commission of Higher Education

VICE PRESIDENT

The New England Commission of Higher Education invites applications for the position of Vice President of the Commission. This position is one of six professional positions serving the Commission. The New England Commission of Higher Education is a national accrediting organization, originally focused on the six New England states, but today accredits a number of institutions outside New England and also globally. The Commission accredits a total of approximately 230 colleges and universities. Its offices are located in Wakefield, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston.

The Commission seeks an exceptionally qualified individual with the skills and qualities to have a significant impact on the achievement of its dual purposes: quality assurance and quality enhancement of its affiliated institutions. To this end, the Vice President will substantively interact with institutions involved in the accreditation process, providing information, advice, and encouragement; oversee and give direction to the Commission’s evaluation processes; support and advance the deliberations of the Commission and its committees.  In addition, the Vice President works independently and in concert with other members of the staff to lead and participate in various Commission activities and otherwise to contribute to the successful accomplishment of its purposes. As a part of each activity, the Vice President will assess its effectiveness toward contributing to the achievement of the Commission’s purposes and undertake improvements when necessary.

The successful candidate will have an earned doctorate and extensive experience in higher education resulting in a knowledge and understanding of issues confronting colleges and universities, particularly as they relate to finances and academic quality; commitment to and significant understanding of  accreditation; demonstrated ability to speak and present information effectively;  aptitude for managing a considerable amount of detail; a strong capacity for self-motivation and the ability to work independently as well as a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team; and exceptional analytic, interpersonal and organizational skills.  Strong writing skills required, including the ability to constructively convey complex Commission decisions to member institutions.  Additional preferred qualifications include experience as an evaluation team member or team chair; a grasp of the  components of college and university finance; and experience with Salesforce or similar system. The Commission also seeks a person of good cheer with a sense of humor who exhibits uncommon civility.

Salary and benefits are competitive and are commensurate with qualifications and experience. NECHE staff work a hybrid schedule, typically spending two days a week in the office. The anticipated starting date for this position is July 1, 2024. Screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.   Individuals wishing to apply should send a letter of interest and their current resume to:

Lawrence Schall , President

c/o Paula Harbecke, careers@neche.org

Finalists will be asked to provide the name, e-mails, and telephone numbers of three professional references, along with a writing sample.